New Delhi: In its latest development, the Supreme Court (SC) granted permission for the extension of the tenure of Sanjay Kumar Mishra, the Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), till September 15, citing reasons of "national interest." Interestingly, the Court made it clear that no further requests for an extension would be entertained in this matter.
Notably, the Apex court had previously placed a stay on the Centre's order, which granted a third extension to Mishra, labeling it as "illegal." Consequently, Mishra will continue serving as the ED director until July 31.
Amidst ongoing scrutiny by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the Centre urged the Supreme Court to extend Mishra's tenure until October 15. The FATF review is currently at a crucial stage, with submissions on effectiveness already made on July 21, 2023, and an on-site visit scheduled for November 2023.
The Centre, in its plea, emphasized the necessity of having an individual well-versed in money laundering investigations and proceedings nationwide, as well as familiar with the intricate procedures, operations, and activities of the investigating agency, leading the Directorate of Enforcement. Such expertise is deemed vital to promptly and efficiently assist the assessment team with essential reports, information, and statistics.
The plea further stated that a transition in leadership at the Directorate of Enforcement during this critical stage would severely impede the agency's ability to provide necessary assistance and cooperation to the assessment team, consequently adversely affecting India's national interest. Therefore, extending Mishra's tenure is seen as the best course of action to ensure a smooth and effective process during the FATF review.
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